Performing Ensembles
Once classes have established a core repertoire, it has been a longstanding tradition for these students to continue with Kutsinhira by establishing themselves as self-directing performing ensembles. These ensembles represent the music and Kutsinhira to the public by performing at a professional level for public and private events. To see some of these performances, visit and subscribe to Kutsinhira’s YouTube page.
These ensembles may be hired for $250/hour, with a minimum set length of 1 hour. Performances are lively and will get audiences on their feet and enthusiastically participating.
To schedule a performance, contact Gary Spalter:
Cell phone: 541.337.3281
Email: gary@kutsinhira.org
CHAPWITITI
Chapwititi, which means the spark before a fire in the Shona language of Zimbabwe, upholds a long-standing legacy of outstanding teenage performers educated by the Kutsinhira Cultural Arts Center in Eugene, Oregon. Most in the group, directed by Gary Spalter, have been playing the music since they were 10 years old. These talented high school musicians create highly entertaining and danceable music as learned directly from their Zimbabwean and Kutsinhira teachers. Their infectious music will inspire you to dance and participate in their performance.
JENAGURU MARIMBA
Jenaguru – Full Moon Marimba
In Zimbabwe, everyone dances to the spirited rhythms of traditional music! Jenaguru, a 10-member marimba band, draws on the influence of traditional Zimbabwean mbira music to create jubilant dance music on marimbas. From the playful song Kamba to the hauntingly beautiful Todzungaira, the complex melodies and rhythms of the marimbas, vocals, and the strong pulse of the hosho and drums stir and inspire the audience. Jenaguru, a performing ensemble of Kutsinhira, has performed throughout Oregon, including Eugene’s First Night, the Eugene Celebration, Saturday Market, the Bach Festival, the Zimbabwean Music Festival, public schools, and for many community events and private celebrations.
Past Performances
- Zimfest
- Midwifery Today Conference (see video below)
- Eugene Saturday Market
- Eugene Sunday Streets
- Eugene Celebration
- Oregon Country Fair
- Oregon Bach Festival
- Many private parties, school performances, and community events
MHONDORO MARIMBA
Zomba
MUTSWI WAMBUYA
Contact Us
Executive Director
Gary Spalter
541.337.3281
gary@kutsinhira.org
Mailing Address
Kutsinhira Cultural Arts Center
P.O. Box 50823
Eugene, OR 97405
